Christian Aid has strongly criticised Donald Trump, after he signed an executive order to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement on his first day as President.
The Paris Agreement commits nations to keeping global warming below 2°C (ideally 1.5°C), to set targets to reduce emissions, and to aim for net-zero emissions by 2050. Richer countries also pledge to support poorer nations in adapting to climate-related challenges.
Christian Aid’s Head of Global Advocacy, Graham Gordon, described Trump’s decision as showing a "unique level of ignorance and indifference" to the struggles faced by vulnerable communities around the world.
“Last time Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, other countries, states, cities, businesses, and civil society organizations stepped in to maintain momentum. We need that same clear-sighted leadership again,” Gordon added.
Christian Aid is calling on the international community to take urgent action, describing climate change as the world’s “biggest geopolitical threat.”
On his first day in office, Trump also granted full presidential pardons to around 1,500 individuals involved in the storming of the Capitol four years ago.
Additionally, he withdrew the U.S. from the World Health Organisation, declared a National Emergency at the border with Mexico—effectively halting asylum—and announced plans to end birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrant parents. The U.S. has long interpreted its 14th Amendment to guarantee citizenship to those born on American soil, regardless of their parents' immigration status.
